Green Bay Packers’ Aaron Rodgers Ready to Play Sunday

By Michael Terrill

Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is definitely ready to play Sunday, or at least all signs point to it. Even head coach Mike McCarthy said Rodgers looked great in practice, while the quarterback himself admitted that he’s able to make every throw on the field. Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear either man will get the final say in regards to the signal caller playing against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Rodgers relays all medical questions to McCarthy who relays those same questions to Dr. Pat McKenzie. Of course, no one is allowed to discuss Rodgers’ status with Dr. McKenzie, but McCarthy has stated time and again that it will be the team’s physician who must clear Rodgers to play. The reality is the final say might not be up to any of those three gentlemen.

In fact, it’s general manager Ted Thompson who is most likely the man who carries the heaviest vote. McKenzie has had several meetings with Thompson regarding the fractured collarbone of the franchise’s superstar. That means Thompson is constantly up to speed on where his quarterback’s health is.

It appears McCarthy is practically urging the powers that be to clear his quarterback with the way he described how well Rodgers threw the ball in practice on Thursday. However, Thompson may be hesitant to see the $100 million man put in a vulnerable position that could affect the outcome of next season, especially since there’s no guarantee the Packers win out just because Rodgers is under center.

Green Bay will make the decision Friday whether or not Rodgers will suit up on Sunday. If he’s medically able to play then the Packers need to pull the trigger. I understand the risks that are involved. With that being said, Green Bay controls their own destiny. Two wins and they’re in the playoffs. There’s no reason to be overly safe with it because the Super Bowl window is closing. The fact is the Packers need to win now before it’s too late.